Travelog

Cheers to Nature: Discover Craft Beer Bliss in Tsugaike Kogen with HAKUBA Craft Beer

2025.05.26

When people think of Hakuba, what comes to mind is usually winter: powder snow, world-class skiing, and a lively international crowd. But did you know that Hakuba is just as magical during the warmer months? From spring to autumn, it transforms into a paradise of lush greenery, vivid alpine flowers, and outdoor adventures.

Among Hakuba’s famous spots like Happo Pond and Iwatake Mountain Resort, there’s one hidden gem that deserves more love—Tsugaike Kogen.

Tsugaike Kogen: A Hidden Gem for Every Season

Set in the quiet village of Otari, Tsugaike Kogen stretches across the mountains, with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 1,900 meters above sea level. While neighboring attractions like Happo Pond and Iwatake Mountain Harbor often capture more attention, Tsugaike is the go-to destination for seasoned travelers seeking serenity, stunning natural scenery, and easy access.

Here's how it shines throughout the year:

Season	Nature Highlights
Spring (June)	Alpine blooms like mizubasho (shrunk cabbage) and nirinsou flowers emerge as the snow melts. Snow-capped peaks of the Northern Alps create a surreal contrast.
Summer (July - August)	Refreshing mountain air, lush green landscapes, and easy hiking through Tsugaike Nature Park.
Autumn (September - October)	Brilliant fall foliage paints the hills. Early October is peak color time. (Read about our autumn trip to Tsugaike Kogen here.)
Winter (December - April)	Deep snow, quiet trails, and a ski resort fit for all levels—from first-timers to seasoned pros.

Note: The gondola and ropeway do not operate from mid-May to early June, and from early November to late December due to maintenance.

Easy Hiking with Epic Views: Tsugaike Nature Park

You don’t have to be a hardcore hiker to enjoy epic views here. Perched at an altitude of around 1,900 meters, Tsugaike Nature Park offers stunning panoramas and a pleasant experience. From the Tsugaike Kogen bus stop, it’s a short walk to the gondola station. A scenic gondola ride followed by a ropeway ride later, you’ll find yourself at the park entrance, high above the world.

The park is designed for accessibility, with wooden boardwalks guiding you through the scenery. A full loop around the park takes about 3.5 to 4 hours, but if you're short on time or energy, a shorter course (1 to 1.5 hours) that covers the Mizubasho and Watasuge wetlands is just as breathtaking.

One of the biggest highlights? The Tsugaike Snow Valley (Daisekkei) — a jaw-dropping alpine view framed by the Northern Alps. The final ascent is a bit steep, but you’ll see everything from elementary schoolers to folks in their 70s climbing it. With proper footwear and clothing, you’re all set.

tsugaike-autumn-2 Image: Daisekkei Viewpoint

Don’t forget: Weather in the mountains changes fast—bring a rain jacket, check the forecast, and pack accordingly!

See hiking map here

Tsugaike Nature Park - Opening Period

The park is generally closed from around November 4th until roughly the first week of June. For up-to-date information, please check Tsugaike Nature Park's official website.

From Trails to Taps: A Taste of HAKUBA CRAFT

After a long hike (or even a short one), few things hit the spot like a cold beer. Luckily, you won’t have to go far—just a 3-minute stroll from the gondola station, HAKUBA BEER GARAGE is waiting for you with open taps and mountain views.

Beers Brewed from Alpine Snowmelt

HAKUBA CRAFT uses ultra-soft snowmelt water from Otari Village, giving their beers a crisp yet smooth finish. Here are their three signature brews:

Awayuki (Weizen): Brewed with over 50% wheat, featuring subtle banana notes and minimal bitterness, with a light, refreshing finish enhanced by the soft water.
Avalanche (IPA): Offers bold hop bitterness, a pronounced dry-hop aroma, and a subtle caramel-roast finish.
Tropical Snow (Hazy IPA): Features mild bitterness, fruity notes, and a tropical aroma.

hakuba-reth (7)

They're also working toward creating 100% locally sourced beers using Hakuba-grown malt and hops. Fresh from the tap—can’t get better than that!

Local Flavors to Match

The menu at HAKUBA BEER GARAGE is just as impressive as the beers. Featuring regional ingredients like Shinshu beef, locally raised pork, and veggies grown with leftover malt from brewing, the food is hearty, flavorful, and perfect with a pint.

Recommended dishes:

Shinshu Beef Steak
Shinshu Salmon Bruschetta
Otari free-range Park Prosciutto
Spiced Karaage and Anchovy Edamame

Great Vibes, Great Views

The restaurant overlooks the “Bell-Ringing Hill Slope” of the Tsugaike Ski Resort, offering panoramic mountain views year-round. Whether you're there for après-ski or a summer chill session, the atmosphere is always relaxed.

Choose your favorite spot: solo-friendly counter seating, cozy sofas for couples or friends, or an open terrace for that fresh alpine air.

Hakuba Beer Garage

Address: See Google Map
Hours: 11:00 - 15:00 (L.O 14:30) / 18:00 - 24:00 (L.O. 23:30)

How to Get to Hakuba Tsugaike Kogen

From	Means	Travel Time	Remarks
Nagano	Nagano - Hakuba Bus	1 hr 30 min	Direct ride, no transfers
Matsumoto	JR Oito line train + Nagano-Hakuba bus	2 hr 30 min	Train to Nagano, then change to Hakuba-bound bus.
Shinjuku	Shinjuku - Hakuba bus	5-6 hrs	Direct but limited service.

Get off at the "Tsugaike Kogen" bus stop. The gondola station is just a short walk away. (Google Map)

hakuba-tsugaike-autumn (18) Image: "Tsugaike Kogen" bus stop

See all bus timetables to Hakuba

Tips

Staying in Nagano City makes it easy to day-trip to Hakuba, Togakushi, or even the Snow Monkey Park. Great for multi-destination travelers!

Tsugaike Kogen is a perfect mix of stunning nature and craft culture—where mountain trails meet mountain ales. Whether you’re here for the views, the hiking, or that first cold sip after a long day, it’s an unforgettable combo.

So, lace up your boots, bring your appetite, and head into the mountains. Nature and craft beer await you in Tsugaike Kogen.

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